HapaSpace served as the Kumasi delivery partner for the UNICEF StartUp Lab, a 24-week pre-accelerator programme designed to support early-stage, impact-driven startups in Ghana. Led by UNICEF Ghana, implemented by MEST, and supported by KOICA, the programme aims to empower young entrepreneurs developing solutions that improve the lives of children and young people.
From May to October 2024, HapaSpace hosted and supported five selected startups in Kumasi. The support provided included intensive coaching, coordination of fieldwork, ecosystem engagement, and logistical facilitation during their Key Weeks. Startups were guided through a structured journey involving local research activities, user testing, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that their solutions were grounded in real community needs.
Throughout the programme, HapaSpace offered a fully equipped and safe workspace, reliable internet connectivity, and refreshments to create a conducive learning environment. The team closely monitored startup progress, submitted detailed performance reports, and contributed valuable insights to MEST’s monitoring and evaluation processes. HapaSpace also facilitated the startups’ participation in Work Weeks and Demo Day in Accra, handling all travel and coordination.
In addition, HapaSpace played a vital role in connecting the startups with local mentors, investors, and ecosystem partners to strengthen their business models and expand their networks. Startups in the cohort received training in business and product development, user research, impact measurement, financial planning, marketing, communication, and investment readiness.
By the end of the programme, five early-stage startups had received tailored support, over ten structured support sessions were delivered, and all participating startups successfully took part in Demo Day, showcasing their progress and potential to a wider audience.